Numerous cultivars have been developed, of which the following have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit:-[7] The name imphepho used in Southern Africa refers to around 250 species from the genus Helichrysum.

[12] The Helichrysum species used as imphepho grow abundantly in South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho but especially around coastal areas and the largely arid Northern Cape province.

The plant has proven anti microbial properties and appears to work effectively as pain relief and as an anti-inflammatory, probably due to various volatile oils and flavanoids.

[13] Imphepho is boiled either in water or milk to make a tea, it is used internally to treat coughs, colds, fever, infection, menstrual pain, headaches, insomnia, hypertension and even allergies and diabetes.

[12][13] For pain relief and to treat coughs, colds, bronchitis and other chest infections the plant is burnt and the smoke inhaled.

[12] No evidence is available as to how effective imphepho is as a treatment for tuberculosis but the plant's common use in the area and the prevalence of the illness suggest that it may be ineffective.

The papery flowers of various species come in a range of colours with bright to dull yellow, white, pink and orange being most common.

It is usually burnt indoors and traditionally in a barely ventilated hut, the herb is used as incense but in such large quantities that it may resemble fumigation.

[14] Before and during consultations with the ancestors for the purposes of divination,seeking wise counsel and insight, or otherwise, Sangomas will burn imphepho.

[14] Euphoria, ecstasy, uncontrolled giggling and sedation are commonly experienced by people inhaling imphepho smoke.

[12] Other symptoms may be more rare and are normally seen in connection to the African traditional beliefs, mild hallucinations (such as seeing everything bathed in a gentle golden light) are seen as 'visions' and "speaking in tongues" has been known.

South African law protects the right of individuals to burn imphepho as part of ceremonies and rituals associated with traditional beliefs.